Effect of Gamma Rays on Zn/Cu Doped Strontium Borate Glass System for Dosimetric Applications

Two alkali metal strontium borate glass systems containing Cu 2+ or Zn 2+ ions (0.15 mol. %) have been prepared by the conventional melt annealing method, then some of their dosimetric measurements have been performed. The two glass systems were checked by ultraviolet-visible light measurement, where Cu 2+ ions reveal a sharp peak in the UV region at 320 nm as Cu + and a broad visible band at ~ 735 nm as Cu 2+ . However, Zn 2+ ions reveal two sharp peaks at 290 & 300 nm related to its divalent state (Zn 2+ ). Upon γ-rays, glass is sensitive to the absorbed dose in the range 0.4 to 15 kGy, revealing its light absorption. A gradual decrease in optical absorbance intensity and DC electrical conductivity was detected with the progressive irradiation. While, a gradual increase in optical energy band gap (Eopt) and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was observed. The presence of transition metal ions (TM) with a variable configuration helps to trap the radiolytic electrons or holes during the color center recovery rates. All the dosimetry characteristics of EPR spectrum, UV-Vis spectrophotometer has high color stability and excellent short-term and long-term stability of the studied glass dosimeters, revealing its applications in medical sterilization and food irradiation processing.